idioms using “press”

Hot off the press

The latest news

“Here’s the news from the board meeting, hot off the press.” Note: This refers to a printing press.

Hard pressed

To find something difficult

“Mariko-san is an excellent employee; we’ll be hard pressed to find someone to replace her when she leaves.”

Press on

To continue forward though conditions are unfavorable

“Though our research seems to be leading nowhere, we must press on until we have a breakthrough.”

Pressed for time

To be short of time

“Though the movie star was pressed for time, she patiently gave autographs for over an hour.” Note: “Pressed for money” is another common idiom; to be short of money.

A full-court press

To make a full effort

“We must win back the business we lost last year; nothing less than a full-court press by our sales team will be sufficient.” Note: A basketball term for a defensive play on the court.